**Breaking News: Fake Flight Instructor’s Actions Lead to Tragic Death of Student Pilot!**
In a shocking turn of events, a man masquerading as a flight instructor has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after a catastrophic plane crash that claimed the life of student pilot Keith Cazelle. The incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff on September 28, 2022, has raised critical questions about aviation safety and regulatory oversight.
Cazelle, a 49-year-old with 50 hours of flight experience, was training for his Private Pilot certificate when he boarded a 1968 Piper Cherokee with 34-year-old Philip Everton McPherson II, who falsely claimed to be a qualified instructor. Moments after takeoff from Allentown Queen City Municipal Airport, their aircraft plummeted into trees and erupted in flames. Cazelle tragically perished, while McPherson managed to escape, only to later plead for help to save his student—whom he had misrepresented as his own.
Investigations reveal a disturbing pattern of incompetence surrounding McPherson. Despite holding a temporary airman certificate, he was prohibited from carrying passengers and was not legally permitted to instruct. The FAA had previously raised serious concerns about his qualifications, yet he continued to operate as an instructor, leading to this devastating accident.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as McPherson emerged from the wreckage, reportedly showing little remorse for the tragedy that unfolded. His actions have now led to a federal indictment, with charges that could result in a staggering 128 years in prison.
As the aviation community grapples with the ramifications of this tragedy, Cazelle’s family mourns the loss of a beloved father and husband. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the critical need for stringent oversight in pilot training and certification. The full impact of this disaster is still unfolding, and further legal actions are anticipated as the investigation continues.